Umatilla, Florida Man Cited for Feeding, then Killing Bear

A 48-year-old Umatilla man was charged last week with taking and possessing a Florida black bear, and placing food or garbage to attract bears. He is scheduled to appear in Marion County court at 1 p.m. on Sept.10.

According to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers, at around 9:30 p.m., Aug. 25 , J.C. Calton (DOB 11/18/63) of 20869 142nd Place lured a black bear to his yard in the Ocala National Forest with dog food and corn, and then killed it with a bow and arrow.

FWC officers began an investigation into the alleged crime on Aug. 26 after receiving a report of a dead bear lying on a dirt road in a remote area of the Ocala National Forest. The large bear had been shot with a broadhead arrow, dragged by a vehicle to the remote area and dumped.

Calton told FWC officers that after he shot the bear it died in his yard. He then used his truck to drag it to the remote area, where it was later discovered by someone who reported it to the FWC.

To report wildlife, fish and boating violations, please call the FWC’s 24-hour Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922). Callers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward if their information leads to an arrest.